HAYWOOD COUNTY, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A large mulch fire at the TBD Landfill, burning for several weeks, is sending smoke across Haywood County, officials said. Residents and drivers can expect to see smoke near Canton, Clyde and nearby communities for the coming weeks as the fire slowly consumes a massive mulch pile.
The fire is being monitored around the clock by landfill staff in coordination with the North Canton Fire Department. North Canton Fire Chief Steve Kelley said the fire does not threaten homes or property outside the landfill, and containment is the top priority.
“Fortunately, right now, everything is green, there’s been plenty of rain, and that works in our favor to keep the fire contained within the landfill,” Kelley said.
Drivers may see smoke along Interstate 40 under certain conditions. Signage has been updated to alert motorists, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation recommends checking DriveNC.gov for current road conditions.
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, is also monitoring the fire, which is confined to woody debris and does not pose an environmental risk, fire officials said. The amount and location of smoke will vary depending on weather, wind and time of day. Residents with breathing problems are advised to stay indoors when heavy smoke is present. Updates are available at ReadyHaywood.com.
North Canton Fire Department described the fire as originating in a mulch pile of about 700,000 cubic yards, with the total landfill containing roughly 2.3 million cubic yards of compacted mulch. Firefighters and landfill personnel are maintaining a 24-hour fire watch.
In a Thursday statement, Canton officials acknowledged that while the town has no jurisdiction over the landfill on Thickety Road, the smoke and odors affect residents within the city. The town board expressed strong concern over air quality and traffic issues, saying they are actively engaging with state and federal authorities and the landfill operator to address the situation.
“The odors and poor air quality being reported are unacceptable — not just for those living near the landfill, but for residents across the entire town,” the statement read. “Our community deserves clean air and a safe environment. We are committed to advocating fiercely on behalf of our citizens until meaningful solutions are implemented.”
